You can’t say that Isaiah Washington doesn’t know how to command attention.
The one-time Grey’s Anatomy star took to social media this week with a striking message:
He is retiring from the entertainment industry.
Although a few days later?
The star said he would return to acting if fans helped fund his next film.
“It is with a heavy heart and a sense of relief that I am announcing my early retirement from the entertainment industry today,” Washington wrote. Early tweet on Tuesday.
“Those who have been following/watching my journey on t—ter since 2011 all know I fought the good fight, but it looks like the haters, boogers and useful idiots won are,” he elaborated.
“I am no longer interested in the back and forth about ‘color building’ that divides us humans nor am I interested in politics or vitriol of any kind.”
Following the plans of the 59-year-old retiring In this initial post?
He said, “I will travel this great country before it falls to socialism and then to communism.”
“Until then, know that this Frederick Douglass Conservative will be keeping his powder dry and loves you all,” he said.
“I’m really grateful for your support over the years.”
On Thursday, Washington made the announcement after noting the “incredible positive response”.
Instead, the actor will return to the screen… if fans help pay for his next project!
Yes true. As we said, he caught the attention of fans everywhere,
,[It] It became clear that I have been successfully working outside the traditional Hollywood system for the past 15 years,” he wrote.
“So, why stop now with my February 28, 2023 Twitter post with over 5 million views and counting?
“It looks like if I receive just $1.00 from 5 million people, I will have enough capital to continue independently producing my own Bas Reeves film project for a Fall 2023 shooting schedule in Arkansas and Oklahoma. “
“I mean why not try, right?”
“I’m true to my word and as transparent as can be in the entertainment industry and I know I can deliver something even more valuable than my recent western Corsicana and I love that movie!”
“I am asking for an initial $1 million in backing and my ultimate goal is $5 million,” he continued.
“Never in my life or career have I asked for help or financial support in this way, but it appears that there are millions of people in America and the world who want to see me as the great American hero Deputy US Marshal Bass Reeves and I look forward to continuing the journey and fight with your support.”
Washington is best known for playing Preston Burke on Grey’s Anatomy.
He was fired from the show in 2007 after using a homophobic slur against TR Knight.
The actor followed those shows with The 100, Bull and P-Wally.
What are your thoughts on the announcement?
Hit the comments.
Remember, you can watch Grey’s Anatomy online right here via TV Fanatic.
Grey’s Anatomy airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on ABC.
Paul Daly is the Associate Editor of TV Fanatic. follow him Twitter,